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Understanding Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy

Many people know all too well what radiotherapy is. One in three people is now expected to be affected by cancer at some point in their lives, meaning radiotherapy is something the public has become well versed in, what with it being one of the most successful ways of killing cancerous cells.

One variation which is not so commonly known, however, is intensity modulated radiotherapy, a procedure which can offer more successful results in certain cases.

Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is a high precision dose of radiotherapy that can be used to target oddly shaped tumours, such as the concave ones which wrap around bones or organs. The next generation of 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy, IMRT uses a computer to distribute radiation accurately and in the correct dosages. It uses a number of smaller beams within a typical larger beam which then attacks the tumour from many different angles for a greater chance of success.

This not only makes it more effective at killing the cancer cells but also lowers the potential for damage to surrounding skin, bone or muscle tissue. This can then lead to a greater chance of beating the cancer, as well as a much faster, easier and painless recovery process. Unsurprisingly, the less healthy tissue the radiation has to pass through, the healthier a person will be, meaning they can keep more mobile during treatment, which could boost their treatment, not to mention lessen potential depression or muscle wastage.

Coupling this method of targeting with effective mapping of the tumour (in order to get a more accurate idea of its size and shape) will then allow doctors the best chance of effectively attacking the tumour and helping the patient make a full recovery.

So IMRT may not be as well known as its precursor, radiotherapy, but its success could well see that changed in years to come as patients live to tell the tale of its success.

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Statements on Get Holistic Health about health issues aren't meant to identify, treat, cure, or protect against illness. For those who have a health problem of any sort speak with your health care specialist. Material shown by Get Holistic Health is for educational purposes only and isn't meant to substitute for the recommendation of a doctor and other medical professional.